Inside Mayumi Lashbrook's Fridge: A Dance Choreographer's Story

Julia Wagner · 2026-05-07

Ever wonder what fuels a contemporary dance choreographer? We got a peek inside Mayumi Lashbrook's fridge from Aeris Körper Contemporary Dance. It's not just about food—it's about the rhythm of daily life. ### The Choreographer Behind the Fridge Door Mayumi Lashbrook is a force in the dance studio world. She runs Aeris Körper Contemporary Dance, a company known for pushing boundaries. Her choreography blends raw emotion with precise movement. But like all of us, she needs to eat. Her fridge tells a story of balance. It's a mix of quick fuel for rehearsals and slow-cooked meals for recovery. Lashbrook believes what you put in your body affects your art. And she practices what she preaches. ### What's Stocked and Why When you open her fridge, you'll find staples that support a dancer's lifestyle: - **Fresh greens and veggies**: Spinach, kale, and bell peppers for quick salads. - **Protein sources**: Eggs, chicken breast, and tofu for muscle repair. - **Fermented foods**: Kimchi and pickles for gut health. - **Hydration heroes**: Sparkling water and coconut water. She avoids processed snacks. Instead, she reaches for nuts and fruits. It's a simple system that keeps her energy steady through long rehearsals. ### How Choreographers Stay Fueled Dance choreographers face unique challenges. They spend hours on their feet, often skipping meals. Lashbrook admits she used to rely on coffee. Now she plans ahead. "I prep ingredients on Sundays," she says. "It saves me from bad choices." This routine helps her stay focused during creative blocks. It also sets an example for her dancers. She wants them to see that self-care starts in the kitchen. ### The Connection Between Food and Movement Lashbrook sees a direct link between diet and dance. Heavy meals slow her down. Light, nutrient-dense foods keep her sharp. She also values variety. "Eating the same thing every day kills creativity," she explains. "Just like in choreography, you need different textures." Her fridge reflects this philosophy. It's never boring. There's always something new to try, from miso paste to seasonal fruits. ### Tips for Dance Professionals If you run a dance studio or teach classes, take note. Lashbrook's approach offers lessons: - **Plan your meals**: Prep on weekends to avoid fast food. - **Stay hydrated**: Water is non-negotiable for performance. - **Listen to your body**: Adjust your diet based on rehearsal intensity. - **Keep it simple**: You don't need fancy recipes to eat well. These habits can improve your energy and focus. They also show your dancers that health is part of the craft. ### The Bigger Picture A fridge is more than a storage box. It's a snapshot of priorities. For Lashbrook, it's about sustainability. She wants to keep dancing for decades. That means treating her body with respect. Her advice to other choreographers? "Don't neglect the basics. Food is fuel, but it's also joy." So next time you're in the dance studio, think about what's in your fridge. It might just change how you move.